Airport Mode: Does Whatsapp Stay Silent?

WhatsApp is a messaging app that has become an integral part of our daily lives, but there are times when we need a break from constant connectivity or want to maintain our privacy. This is where airplane mode comes in. In this mode, your device's cellular, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi connections are disabled, but you can still access your previously downloaded messages and view the cached status without appearing online. This feature is especially useful when you want to avoid the constant notifications or read a message without the sender knowing. However, it's important to note that you won't be able to send or receive new messages, make calls, or share files while in airplane mode.

Using WhatsApp in-flight without Wi-Fi

WhatsApp is a messaging app that can be used on a flight, but it requires an internet connection. While in the past, accessing the internet while flying was impossible, it is now becoming more common for airlines to offer in-flight Wi-Fi.

Using WhatsApp In-Flight with Wi-Fi

To use WhatsApp in-flight, you will need to connect to the aircraft's Wi-Fi network. Here are the steps to follow:

• Enable Airplane Mode: Before takeoff, turn on Airplane Mode on your device. This will disable your phone's cellular capabilities, which could interfere with the aircraft's systems.
• Connect to In-Flight Wi-Fi: Once the plane has reached a certain altitude (usually above 10,000 feet), you can enable Wi-Fi on your device while keeping Airplane Mode on. Look for the in-flight Wi-Fi network name, which may be provided by the flight crew or found on the airline's website or inflight magazine.
• Purchase a Wi-Fi Package: Most airlines charge a fee for accessing in-flight Wi-Fi. You may be able to select a package based on your data needs and the duration of your flight.
• Launch WhatsApp: Once connected to the Wi-Fi network, you can open WhatsApp and send and receive messages as you would on the ground.

It's important to note that in-flight Wi-Fi speeds and data restrictions may vary across airlines. While sending and receiving text messages is usually possible, making voice or video calls on WhatsApp may not be supported due to limited speed and bandwidth. Additionally, some airlines may ban or disable voice and video calls to avoid disturbing other passengers.

Airlines with In-Flight Wi-Fi and WhatsApp Messaging

Several major airlines offer in-flight Wi-Fi and support WhatsApp messaging:

• Delta Air Lines: Offers in-flight Wi-Fi on most flights, allowing WhatsApp usage. Prices vary based on flight length and device type. Delta also offers free messaging through its mobile app, which includes WhatsApp.
• British Airways: Provides in-flight Wi-Fi on most flights, with various packages, including a messaging-only option that enables WhatsApp usage at a lower cost.
• Emirates: Offers in-flight Wi-Fi on most flights, with 20MB of free data for the first two hours, followed by paid plans.
• Lufthansa: Provides in-flight Wi-Fi on long-haul and short-haul flights, with packages including a messaging-only option for WhatsApp.
• Qantas: Offers free in-flight Wi-Fi on most domestic flights within Australia, with no data caps or time limits.
• JetBlue Airways: Offers free, high-speed Wi-Fi ("Fly-Fi") on every plane, allowing full internet access.
• Nok Air: Provides free Wi-Fi on Boeing 737 flights but not on Q400 NextGen aircraft.
• Norwegian Air: Offers free Wi-Fi on most flights, with the option to purchase faster Wi-Fi for streaming.
• Alaska Airlines: Allows free messaging through iMessage, Facebook Messenger, and WhatsApp on flights with in-flight internet. However, sending photos, videos, or SMS messages is not supported.
• Southwest Airlines: Offers free text messaging through iMessage and WhatsApp.

Tips for Using WhatsApp In-Flight

• Download the App in Advance: If your airline offers free texting through WhatsApp, make sure to download the app before your flight. Downloading the app during the flight may require connecting to Wi-Fi, which could incur additional charges.
• Check Airline Policies: Different airlines have varying policies and packages for in-flight Wi-Fi. Check the airline's website or inflight magazine for instructions and pricing information.
• Limit High-Data Activities: In-flight Wi-Fi speeds may not support streaming videos or other high-data usage activities. Stick to text messaging to ensure a smoother experience.
• Consider Alternative Messaging Apps: If you don't want to pay for in-flight Wi-Fi, consider using alternative messaging apps that offer free texting. For example, some airlines support free texting through iMessage or Facebook Messenger.

Reading WhatsApp messages without appearing online

WhatsApp's "airplane mode" feature allows you to read messages without appearing online. When you enable airplane mode, your device disconnects from all wireless networks, including cellular data and Wi-Fi, preventing WhatsApp from communicating with its servers and keeping your online status hidden from your contacts. This also means that any messages you send will be queued on your device and only delivered once you reconnect to the internet.

• Enable Airplane Mode on your device. On iOS, swipe down from the edge of the screen to access the Control Center and tap the airplane mode icon. On Android, swipe down from the top of the screen to access the quick settings panel and turn on airplane mode.
• Open WhatsApp. Since you are offline, you will be able to read messages and view the cached status without appearing online or triggering read receipts (blue ticks).
• After reading the messages, close the WhatsApp application.
• Reconnect to the internet by disabling Airplane Mode. On iOS, tap the airplane mode icon in the Control Center again. On Android, tap the airplane mode icon in the quick settings panel to turn it off.

Please note that while in Airplane Mode, you won't be able to send or receive messages, make calls, or share files on WhatsApp. Additionally, this method only works if your read receipts are turned off.

If you want to use WhatsApp on a plane, you will need access to in-flight Wi-Fi. Some airlines offer this service, sometimes for a fee. With a Wi-Fi connection, you can use WhatsApp to send messages, make voice and video calls, and access other app features.

Viewing WhatsApp statuses in airplane mode

There are several methods to view someone's WhatsApp status without them knowing. These include:

Using a Status Downloader App

You can use a status-saver application and then download the status offline using the app. You can view the downloaded status without being recorded on the viewer's list.

Using Airplane Mode

Before opening the WhatsApp application, switch off your data connection or disconnect from WiFi and turn on airplane mode. Then, open WhatsApp and go to the Status section. As you are in airplane mode, the WhatsApp server will not be able to update your online status. However, it's important to ensure that you have turned off the "last seen" feature, so your activity isn't visible if someone checks your last seen.

Viewing the Status Without Clicking on It

When you view someone's status, your name is recorded on the viewers' list on WhatsApp. However, if you don't click on the status and instead view it from the circle that appears in the status section, your name won't be recorded. This method also requires you to keep your WiFi or data connection turned off.

Viewing the Status Just Before It Expires

If you want to view a WhatsApp status without being seen online, wait until the last minute before it expires (24 hours after uploading). Sneak a look at the status by turning off your data or WiFi connection, then close the WhatsApp application and remain offline until the status expires. By doing this, the WhatsApp server won't be able to upload your name to the viewer's list.

Sending messages on WhatsApp while in airplane mode

Airplane mode on your phone disables all wireless communication, including cellular data and Wi-Fi connections. However, you can still use WhatsApp to read and send messages while in airplane mode, provided you have access to Wi-Fi.

Here's how you can send messages on WhatsApp while in airplane mode:

• Connect to a Wi-Fi network: On your device, turn on airplane mode, and then manually turn on Wi-Fi while keeping other connections disabled. This will allow you to connect to available Wi-Fi networks.
• Open WhatsApp: Once you're connected to a Wi-Fi network, you can launch WhatsApp and utilize its messaging features.
• Send your messages: Compose and send your messages as you normally would. Keep in mind that you will need to remain connected to the Wi-Fi network to ensure your messages are delivered.
• Disconnect from Wi-Fi (optional): If you want to avoid being seen online or seen as having read a message, you can disconnect from Wi-Fi after sending your messages.

It is important to note that while in airplane mode, you won't be able to make or receive voice or video calls on WhatsApp, as these features require an active internet connection. Additionally, you may not be able to access other features that require internet connectivity, such as sharing media files or using location services.

Also, keep in mind that some airlines may offer in-flight Wi-Fi, allowing you to connect to the internet and use WhatsApp during your flight. However, data fees may apply, and certain features may be restricted to avoid disturbing other passengers.

WhatsApp working on an airplane: fact or fiction?

It's a fact! WhatsApp can work on an airplane, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, you'll need access to a Wi-Fi connection, as in-flight cellular connections are usually not available. So, if you want to use WhatsApp to send messages, make voice or video calls, or use other app features, make sure your flight offers Wi-Fi.

Even if your airline offers in-flight Wi-Fi, there might be data restrictions or limited speeds. As a result, you may only be able to use WhatsApp for text messages and not for voice or video calls. Some airlines might also restrict voice and video calls to avoid disturbing other passengers.

Now, let's talk about "Airplane Mode." When you enable Airplane Mode on your device, it disables your cellular, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi connectivity. However, you can still use WhatsApp in Airplane Mode to read your messages and view the cached status without appearing online. So, if you want to catch up on your WhatsApp conversations without anyone knowing, Airplane Mode is your friend.

But what if you want to send a message or make a call? Well, you'll need to reconnect to the internet or disable Airplane Mode. Simply turn on Wi-Fi while keeping other connections disabled, and you're good to go.

It's worth noting that using your phone on a plane comes with some safety considerations. Cell phone signals can interfere with an airplane's crucial systems, so it's essential to follow the airline's regulations and guidelines. Always put your phone on Airplane Mode during the flight, and if you need to use Wi-Fi, make sure it's allowed by the airline.

So, there you have it! WhatsApp does work on an airplane, but it depends on the in-flight Wi-Fi services offered by your airline. You can always use Airplane Mode to read messages discreetly, but for active communication, you'll need that Wi-Fi connection.

Frequently asked questions